Julian McMahon Passes Away at 56 After Private Cancer Battle

Julian McMahon, the charismatic Australian actor celebrated for his roles in Nip/Tuck, Charmed, FBI: Most Wanted, and as Dr. Doom in the Fantastic Four films, has died at the age of 56. He passed away peacefully on July 2 in Clearwater, Florida, following a quiet and courageous fight against cancer.

His wife, Kelly McMahon, shared the heartbreaking news with a moving tribute. “Julian loved life. He loved his family, his friends, his work, and his fans. His greatest wish was to bring joy to as many lives as possible. We ask for privacy as we grieve, and we hope those who found joy through Julian continue to embrace that joy.”

Born in Sydney, Australia, on July 27, 1968, Julian Dana William McMahon was the son of Billy McMahon, who served as Prime Minister of Australia from 1971 to 1972. Initially pursuing modeling, Julian soon transitioned into acting with his debut in the Australian soap The Power, The Passion in 1989. His rising popularity led to a role in the beloved series Home and Away from 1990 to 1991.

McMahon’s journey to Hollywood began with his feature film debut in Wet and Wild Summer! in 1992, starring alongside Elliott Gould. He then joined the American daytime soap Another World in 1993 before landing a significant primetime role in NBC’s crime drama Profiler, where he remained for four seasons.

One of his most iconic early roles came in the WB’s hit series Charmed, where he portrayed the complex demon-turned-lover Cole Turner opposite Alyssa Milano. Milano paid tribute to her friend, writing, “Julian was more than my TV husband. He was a dear friend… someone who checked in, shared truth with love, and always made you laugh. Forever Cole. Forever Julian.”

His career reached new heights when he starred as Dr. Christian Troy in Ryan Murphy’s groundbreaking drama Nip/Tuck. The series, which aired on FX for six seasons, earned him critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination for his portrayal of the seductive plastic surgeon. His co-star Dylan Walsh expressed deep sorrow, saying, “We rode this wave together and I loved him… My heart is with you. Rest in peace, Jules.”

McMahon later became a familiar face on CBS, leading FBI: Most Wanted for three seasons as Jess LaCroix, the calm and calculated head of the elite fugitive task force. His departure from the show in March 2022 came as a surprise to fans and colleagues alike. Dick Wolf, the creator of the FBI franchise, called his passing “shocking news,” adding that the entire team at Wolf Entertainment is devastated.

Beyond television, McMahon made a lasting impression in cinema, especially as Victor Von Doom in Fantastic Four (2005) and its sequel Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007). His filmography also includes Premonition, RED, Paranoia, You’re Not You, Swinging Safari, and the recently released The Surfer (2024), where he starred opposite Nicolas Cage. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in the Midnight Screenings section. Reflecting on their collaboration, Cage stated, “Julian was one of the most talented actors I’ve worked with. He brought depth and intelligence to every scene. My heart goes out to his family.”

McMahon’s final on-screen appearance was in Netflix’s murder mystery series The Residence, where he brought his career full circle by playing the Prime Minister of Australia, echoing his own family’s political legacy.

Julian McMahon is survived by his wife, Kelly, and daughter Madison “Maddy” McMahon. He leaves behind a rich legacy of dynamic roles, loyal friendships, and unforgettable performances that touched audiences worldwide. His presence, both on and off the screen, will be deeply missed but never forgotten.